Diabetes, a disease characterized by poor use and production of insulin in the body, can be managed through the use of services, supplies, and medication. Depending on the type of diabetes you have, whether Type 1 or Type 2, you can lessen your symptoms by injecting insulin or simply by changing your diet pattern. Through regular testing and maintenance, you can effectively manage your diabetes. Take advantage of free educational services near you. Pick up the necessary supplies at drug stores and through your doctor’s office. Here are some basic terms you should be familiar with.

Diabetes mellitus – Also known simply as diabetes, diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease in which a person has high blood sugar through failure to produce enough natural insulin. Type 1 requires people to inject insulin. Type 2 patients are not dependent on insulin injections but must manage the disease through diet and weight control. This is the most common type. Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women.

Retinopathy – Damage to the retina of the eye caused by diabetes complications, which can eventually lead to blindness.

Neuropathy – A side effect of diabetes, this complication causes damage to the nerves. There are four main types: focal, proximal, autonomic, and peripheral.

Glucose – A vital energy source in living things, this simple sugar is found in carbohydrates.

Insulin coolers – A diabetic supply item that stores your insulin and keeps it cool in a temperature-controlled pouch or container.

Glucose kits – Kits that come complete with everything you need to keep your diabetes in check, such as test strips.

Diabetes, a disease that afflicts millions of Americans, can be controlled through diet or insulin shots, depending on the severity. Diabetes is an imbalance in the body whereby the body does not produce enough insulin or use it properly. Diabetes is not a discriminating disease: it affects men, women, and children in all walks of life. Those who are diabetic have to cut down on their sugar intake and monitor their blood sugar daily.
There is help out there for those who need support, in the form of diabetes services and supplies through clinics, doctor's offices, health agencies, hospitals, and websites. All aim to assist those with this disease, helping them to understand it and manage it well. This may involve medication, shots, or diet changes. It all depends on each individual and what type of diabetes he or she has. Juvenile diabetes, for instance, comes with its own set of challenges.
Services can include free diabetes screenings, blood pressure cuff readings within pharmacies, and foundations that provide information about diabetes prevention, proper foot care, and disease management. Supplies can include glucose monitoring devices, test strips, needles and syringes, and bandages. These supplies can all be found at your local pharmacy, doctor's office, or online. Lancets, socks, pumps, meters, and medical equipment can all be purchased in bulk through wholesalers.
Diabetes services and supplies providers can offer advice on sugar-free food options, eye care, common symptoms, and diabetes control options, whether through food and diet or through insulin shots. People who suffer from diabetes need to be closely monitored by their doctors, who can provide an initial diagnosis, along with a solid diabetes management plan.
One can find diabetes supplies and services providers on the internet or through doctor or hospital recommendations, for anything from insulin tests to glucose meters.